If you’re on a budget, of course it is most sensible to stay home and cook your own meals. But sometimes, you’ve just gotta live a little. Although we enjoy cooking at home, every once in a while, Mr. Frugalicious and I like to head out to a restaurant and let someone else sweat over a stove. To save money, though, I keep an eye on special deals at our favorite spots. And now, the Dana Point Times has compiled a round-up of deals at local restaurants. The list has a lot of good information on food and drink specials, at upscale restaurants and at casual joints.

I’m looking forward to trying the $3 appetizers at Salt Creek Grille, and I can’t imagine anything more pleasant than sitting on the Chart House patio overlooking the Dana Point Harbor while sipping a discounted specialty cocktail and nibbling on a $4 appetizer.